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My Child Has:
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Herpangina
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Herpangina is an illness caused by a virus, characterized by small blister-like bumps or ulcers that appear in the mouth, usually in the back of throat or the roof of the mouth. The child often has a high fever with the illness.
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Herpangina is caused by a virus. The most common viruses that cause herpangina include the following:
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- coxsackie virus
- echovirus
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Herpangina is a very common disease in children and is usually seen in children between the ages of 1 and 4. It is seen most often in the summer and fall. Good handwashing is necessary to help prevent the spread of the disease.
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The following are the most common symptoms of herpangina. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
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- blister-like bumps in the mouth, usually in the back of the throat and on the roof of the mouth
- headache
- quick onset of fever
- high fever, sometimes up to 106 : F
- pain in the mouth or throat
- drooling
- decrease in appetite
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Herpangina is usually diagnosed based on a complete history and physical examination of your child. The lesions of herpangina are unique and usually allow for a diagnosis simply on physical examination.
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Specific treatment for herpangina will be determined by your child's physician based on:
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- your child's age, overall health, and medical history
- extent of the disease
- your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- expectations for the course of the disease
- your opinion or preference
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The goal of treatment for herpangina is to help decrease the severity of the symptoms. Since it is a viral infection, antibiotics are ineffective. Treatment may include:
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- increased fluid intake
- acetaminophen for any fever
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Proper handwashing is essential in helping to prevent the disease from being spread to other children.
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